Softball Recap: Wickliffe Takes a Loss

Wickliffe had lost three straight at home, but on Wednesday they dropped down to 4-7 to make it four. They lost 19-5 to the Rootstown Rovers. Unfortunately, that's the second time they've come up short against the Rovers this season, as they also lost their prior matchup 6-1 two weeks ago.

Ava McGarry made the most of her time in the batter's box despite the final result and went 3-for-4 with one run and one RBI. Sofia Bucar also deserves some recognition as she brought in her first RBI of the season.

As for Rootstown, the victory (which was their eighth in a row) raised their record to 9-4. Their hitters stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most runs they've scored all season.

On Rootstown's side, Katie Sisley made a big impact while hitting and pitching. She pitched three innings while giving up no earned runs off two hits. Sisley has been nothing but reliable on the mound: she hasn't given up more than one earned run in five consecutive appearances. She was also big at the plate, earning two RBI, one run, and one stolen base.

In other pitching news, Makensea Bittner looked comfortable as she tossed three innings while giving up no earned runs off five hits. She has been consistent: she hasn't given up more than two walks in six consecutive appearances.

Back at the plate, the team relied heavily on Lilly Kamenash, who went 2-for-4 with one home run, three runs, and three RBI. She continues to improve, besting her previous run total in each of the last three games she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Kaitlyn Hammerschmidt, who went a perfect 4-for-4 with two stolen bases and three runs.

Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Wickliffe will venture away from home to challenge Madison at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The Blue Devils' pitchers better be ready for this one: the Blue Streaks have averaged an impressive 6.6 runs per game this season. As for Rootstown, they will head out on the road to take on St. Vincent-St. Mary at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The Fighting Irish have struggled to contain batters this season (they've allowed seven runs per game on average), something the Rovers will no doubt try to take advantage of.